Wage War Against Infection with the Help of Tasty Teas

As the days get shorter and the weather gets chilly, we hope to avoid the coughs, colds, snuffles and sneezes that will inevitably surround us. As tempting as it may be, we can’t just shut ourselves away until spring, so are bound to be in environments where cold and flu germs lurk. Stuffy, heated buildings can create ideal conditions for germs to thrive, and crowded seasonal social events can help to spread more than just goodwill.

The best thing we can do to confront those pesky pathogens is to be forearmed, and strengthen our defences against them. We should ensure our diets include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those high in vitamin C. Garlic is good for its antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant and anti-fungal properties, and eating it may also encourage people with colds to keep their distance! Many herbs and spices have a role to play in immune support. Oregano, for instance, has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal properties, and ginger is known for its antiviral and antibacterial effects. A vitamin D supplement may be a good idea, since lack of exposure to sunlight can cause vitamin D deficiency in some people, making them more susceptible to respiratory tract infections. Sleeping well, managing stress, getting enough fresh air and exercise, avoiding tobacco smoke and drinking sensibly are all measures that can help to strengthen the immune system.

Tea is a great addition to any healthy lifestyle regime because it contains antioxidants to help neutralise free radicals and protect the body from cell damage. Black, white, green, oolong and rooibos teas all contain antioxidants. Tea-Direct also has a great selection of herbal teas and tisanes you may wish to include in your plan of action against infection, and being caffeine-free, can be enjoyed at any time of day. Here are a few suggestions from the range:

Ginger Root ’n’ Lemon Herbal Tea - a delicious combination of ginger root and lemon pieces, with elderberries, rose hips, lemongrass and liquorice pieces. Ginger teas are warming, and have antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Rose Hips Herbal Tea - a silky, slightly fruity tea with unique, delicate flavours and a lovely floral fragrance. Rose hips are a great source of vitamin C.

Chamomile Herbal Tea - a soothing and relaxing caffeine-free beverage to help you get a good night’s sleep. Chamomile contains infection-fighting compounds.

Hibiscus Herbal Tea - a sharp, zesty tisane that is bursting with flavour. Hibiscus contains vitamin C and has anti-bacterial properties.

Pina Colada Fruit Tisane - a delicious blend of fruits and coconut, with hibiscus blossoms and rose hip peels.

Peppermint Herbal Tea - a refreshing and soothing drink. Peppermint contains antioxidants and has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

So let us raise a cup, and drink to our good health with the help of glorious tea!